JP2011255114A - Program, information storage medium, and image generation system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a program for changing the behavior of a marker to an object according to the behavior of the object, and to provide an information storage medium, and an image generation system.SOLUTION: When an enemy plane NPC as a non-player character chases a player's plane PC, a predicted position of the player's plane PC after a predetermined time period, is located based on the moving history of the player's plane PC, the display of a marker MK to the player's plane PC is controlled based on the predicted position and the position of the enemy plane, and game operation is executed based on the positional relashionship between the marker MK and the player's plane PC. The size of the marker MK is changed based on the distance between the player's plane PC and the enemy plane NPC.

Description

  The present invention relates to a program, an information storage medium, and an image generation system.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a flight shooting game is known in which a player performs an input operation to move an airframe (self-machine) in an object space to shoot an enemy airframe (enemy aircraft). In such a flight shooting game, it is known that the player moves the aiming cursor displayed on the game screen with the operation lever to set a target on the enemy aircraft and launches a missile or the like with the operation button to attack the enemy aircraft. (For example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2007-44396 A

  However, in the conventional game, the player himself moves the cursor, and the movement of the cursor does not change according to the behavior of the enemy aircraft.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object thereof is a program, an information storage medium, and an image that can change the behavior of a marker relative to an object according to the behavior of the object. To provide a generation system.

(1) The program according to the present invention is:
A program for generating an image,
A movement control unit for performing movement control for moving the first and second objects in the object space;
Based on the movement history of the first object, a predicted position of the first object after a given time has elapsed, and based on the predicted position and the position of the second object, the predicted position of the first object A marker display control unit for performing control to display a marker;
A game calculation unit for performing a game calculation based on the positional relationship between the marker and the first object;
The computer is caused to function as an image generation unit that generates an image of the object space viewed from a given viewpoint.

  The present invention also relates to an information storage medium that can be read by a computer and stores a program for causing the computer to function as each of the above-described units. The present invention also relates to an image generation system including the above-described units.

  According to the present invention, the behavior of the marker with respect to the first object can be changed according to the behavior of the first object. For example, when the first object moves so as to pass a position close to the predicted position And when it moves so that it may pass through the position away from the prediction position, the positional relationship between the first object and the marker can be changed, and thereby the progress and result of the game can be changed.

(2) In the program, information storage medium, and image generation system according to the present invention,
The first object may be a player character, and the second object may be a non-player character.

  According to the present invention, for example, it is possible to cause the player to play a game such as moving the first object while avoiding the marker.

(3) In the program, information storage medium, and image generation system according to the present invention,
The marker display control unit
You may make it change at least 1 of the magnitude | size of the said marker, a shape, and a color based on the distance between the said 1st object and the said 2nd object.

(4) In the program, information storage medium, and image generation system according to the present invention,
The marker display control unit
The predicted position is obtained for each given time interval, and the time interval for obtaining the predicted position is changed based on the position of the first object at time t and the predicted position obtained for time t. May be.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to make the subsequent position prediction easier to hit or hard to hit depending on whether or not the position prediction is correct.

(5) In the program, information storage medium, and image generation system according to the present invention,
The marker display control unit
A virtual line segment passing through the coordinates of the second object, the direction of which is determined based on the predicted position, and the virtual line determined based on the direction of the viewpoint and the position of the first object You may make it determine the display position of the said marker based on the coordinate of the intersection with a plane.

(6) In the program, the information storage medium, and the image generation system according to the present invention,
The marker display control unit
The three-dimensional coordinate of the intersection of the virtual line segment and the virtual plane may be converted into a two-dimensional coordinate, and the display position of the marker may be determined based on the obtained two-dimensional coordinate of the intersection.

(7) In the program, the information storage medium, and the image generation system according to the present invention,
The marker display control unit
An object indicating the marker may be arranged in the object space based on the three-dimensional coordinates of the intersection of the virtual line segment and the virtual plane.

(8) In the program, information storage medium, and image generation system according to the present invention,
The marker display control unit
An object indicating the marker may be disposed between the first object and the second object.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to express a marker without a sense of incongruity in appearance.

(9) In the program, information storage medium, and image generation system according to the present invention,
The game calculation unit is
Based on the coordinates of the intersection of the virtual line segment and the virtual plane, and the coordinates of the first object, determine whether the positional relationship between the marker and the first object satisfies a predetermined condition, You may make it perform game calculation based on a determination result.

(10) In the program, the information storage medium, and the image generation system according to the present invention,
The marker display control unit
When the positional relationship between the first object and the second object satisfies a predetermined condition, control for displaying the marker may be performed.

The figure which shows an example of the functional block diagram of the game device (image generation system) of this embodiment. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C are diagrams showing an example of a game screen generated in the escape side proximity battle mode. FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B are diagrams for explaining a change in the size of the marker based on the distance. 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining changes in the shape of the marker based on the distance. The figure for demonstrating the propriety determination of the position prediction of an own machine. 6A and 6B are diagrams for explaining a time interval of position prediction. 7A and 7B are diagrams for explaining calculation of the predicted position of the own device. The figure for demonstrating calculation of the direction of a virtual line segment. The figure for demonstrating calculation of the display position of a marker. The figure for demonstrating drawing of the marker in a two-dimensional coordinate system, and determination of the positional relationship of an own machine and a marker. The figure for demonstrating the display control of the marker in the chasing side proximity battle mode. The figure for demonstrating the determination of the positional relationship of an own aircraft and enemy aircraft. The flowchart figure which shows the flow of the process of this embodiment. The flowchart figure which shows the flow of the process of this embodiment. FIGS. 15A to 15C are diagrams for describing a modification. The figure for demonstrating a modification. The figure for demonstrating a modification.

  Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described. In addition, this embodiment demonstrated below does not unduly limit the content of this invention described in the claim. In addition, all the configurations described in the present embodiment are not necessarily essential configuration requirements of the present invention.

1. Functional Block Diagram FIG. 1 shows an example of a functional block diagram of the game device (image generation system, game system, portable terminal) of this embodiment. Note that the game device of this embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (each unit) in FIG. 1 are omitted.

  The operation unit 160 is for a player to input operation information (operation data), and outputs user operation information to the processing unit 100. The functions of the operation unit 160 are buttons (A button, B button, etc.), direction keys (cross keys), control sticks (analog keys) that can input directions, levers, keyboards, mice, touch panel displays, acceleration sensors, and tilt sensors. Etc. can be realized by hardware such as a controller having a built-in controller.

  The storage unit 170 serves as a work area for the processing unit 100, the communication unit 196, and the like, and its function can be realized by a RAM (VRAM) or the like. The storage unit 170 of the present embodiment includes a main storage unit 172 used as a work area, a frame buffer 174 that stores final display images and the like, and an object data storage unit that stores model data of objects. 176, a texture storage unit 178 that stores textures for each object data, and a Z buffer 179 that stores Z values during object image generation processing. Note that some of these may be omitted.

  The information storage medium 180 (computer-readable medium) stores programs, data, and the like, and functions as an optical disk (CD, DVD), magneto-optical disk (MO), magnetic disk, hard disk, and magnetic tape. Alternatively, it can be realized by a memory (ROM). The processing unit 100 performs various processes of the present embodiment based on a program (data) stored in the information storage medium 180. The information storage medium 180 can store a program for causing a computer to function as each unit of the present embodiment (a program for causing a computer to execute processing of each unit).

  The display unit 190 outputs an image generated according to the present embodiment, and its function can be realized by a CRT, LCD, touch panel display, or the like.

  The communication unit 196 performs various controls for communicating with other game devices and servers, and the function can be realized by hardware such as various processors or a communication ASIC, a program, or the like.

  The processing unit 100 (processor) performs processing such as game processing and drawing processing based on operation data from the operation unit 160 and data or programs received from other game devices via the communication unit 196. The processing unit 100 performs various processes using the main storage unit 172 as a work area. The functions of the processing unit 100 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), and programs.

  The processing unit 100 includes an object space setting unit 110, a movement / motion processing unit 112, a marker display control unit 114, a game calculation unit 116, a virtual camera control unit 118, a drawing unit 120, and a sound generation unit 130.

  The object space setting unit 110 includes various objects (polygons, free-form surfaces or subdivision surfaces) representing display objects such as characters (player characters, non-player characters), buildings, stadiums, cars, trees, pillars, walls, maps (terrain). The object is configured to place and set in the object space. For example, the position and rotation angle (synonymous with the direction and direction of the object in the world coordinate system, for example, rotation when rotating clockwise when viewed from the positive direction of each axis of the X, Y, and Z axes in the world coordinate system. The angle is determined, and the object is arranged at the position (X, Y, Z) at the rotation angle (rotation angle about the X, Y, Z axis).

  In particular, the object space setting unit of the present embodiment sets a first object that is a player character and a second object that is a non-player character (NPC) in the object space. Here, the first and second objects may be, for example, an airplane or a car.

  The movement / motion processing unit 112 (movement control unit) performs movement / motion calculation (movement / motion simulation) of an object (such as a character). That is, an object is moved in the object space (game space) based on operation data input by the player through the operation unit 160, a program (movement / motion algorithm), various data (motion data), a physical law, etc. Performs processing to move the object (motion, animation). Specifically, object movement information (position, rotation angle, speed, or acceleration) and motion information (position or rotation angle of each part constituting the object) are stored in one frame (1/60 seconds or 1/30). The simulation process is sequentially performed every second). A frame is a unit of time for performing object movement / motion processing (simulation processing) and image generation processing. In addition, the movement / motion processing unit 112 is based on movement information and motion information of an object (an object corresponding to another player) received from another game device connected via a network via the communication unit 196. Processing for updating movement information and operation information may be performed. Further, the movement / motion processing unit 112 may perform movement / motion calculation of the object based on operation data received from another game device via the communication unit 196.

  In particular, the movement / motion processing unit 112 according to the present embodiment performs movement control for moving the first object (player character) in the object space based on operation data input by the player, and performs first control based on a program or the like. Movement control for moving the second object (NPC) in the object space is performed.

  Further, the movement / motion processing unit 112 may perform follow-up control for causing the second object to follow the first object based on past movement information (movement history) of the first object. The movement information of the first object is, for example, the position, posture, movement vector (speed vector), etc. of the first object. The replay data of the first object may be used as past movement information. For example, the position (coordinates) at which the first object that moves forward with respect to the moving direction of the second object passes a predetermined time before (a predetermined frame when the game time is managed in units of frames) or The position of the second object may be controlled so that the second object passes through the vicinity position.

  Further, the movement / motion processing unit 112 sets a movable range corresponding to the latest movement locus of the first object based on the movement information of the first object in real time, and moves the movable range to the second object. Control may be performed. The movable range may be a planar area, a spatial area, or an area having a certain width with respect to the most recent movement locus of the first object. For example, the movable range may be a tubular space passing through the movement locus of the first object. The second object may move at a position that is randomly shifted vertically and horizontally with respect to the movement trajectory of the first object within the movable range.

  The marker display control unit 114 obtains a predicted position of the first object after a given time based on a movement history (past movement information) of the first object, and calculates the predicted position and the second object. And a marker for the first object (a marker indicating a situation (for example, an attack situation) of the first object with respect to the second object), a measure of an attack on the first object by the second object, and Control to display the marker.

  In addition, the marker display control unit 114 obtains the predicted position based on the position of the first object before a predetermined time (the position at which the first object has passed before the predetermined time) and the current position of the first object. You may do it.

  Further, the marker display control unit 114 changes at least one of the size, shape, and color of the marker based on the distance between the first object and the second object (distance in the object space). May be. For example, as the distance between the first object and the second object is longer, the size of the marker is increased (or the shape of the marker is changed so that the area of the marker is increased), and the first As the distance between one object and the second object is shorter, the size of the marker may be reduced (or the shape of the marker is changed so that the area of the marker is reduced).

  The marker display control unit 114 obtains the predicted position at given time intervals, and determines the predicted position based on the position of the first object at time t and the predicted position obtained for time t. The required time interval may be changed.

  The marker display control unit 114 also includes a virtual line segment that passes through the coordinates of the second object and whose direction is determined based on the predicted position, the viewpoint direction, and the position of the first object. The display position of the marker may be determined based on the coordinates of the intersection with the virtual plane determined based on the above. For example, the virtual plane may be a plane that is orthogonal to the direction of the viewpoint and in which the coordinates of the first object exist.

  The marker display control unit 114 converts the three-dimensional coordinates of the intersection of the virtual line segment and the virtual plane into two-dimensional coordinates (for example, coordinates in the screen coordinate system), and based on the obtained two-dimensional coordinates of the intersection. Then, the display position of the marker may be determined. For example, the two-dimensional coordinates of the intersection may be used as the center coordinates of the marker.

  The marker display control unit 114 may perform processing for arranging an object indicating the marker in the object space based on the three-dimensional coordinates of the intersection of the virtual line segment and the virtual plane. For example, you may make it arrange | position the object which shows the said marker in the three-dimensional coordinate of the said intersection.

  The marker display control unit 114 may arrange an object indicating the marker between the first object and the second object.

  The marker display control unit 114 determines whether the positional relationship between the first object and the second object satisfies a predetermined condition, and displays the marker when it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied. You may make it perform control to perform.

  The game calculation unit 116 performs various game calculation processes. For example, a process for starting a game when a game start condition is satisfied, a process for advancing the game, a process for determining whether or not a clear condition for each game stage is satisfied, or a game when a game end condition is satisfied The process which completes ending, and the process which advances an ending when the last stage is cleared are performed.

  In particular, the game calculation unit 116 of the present embodiment performs a game calculation based on the positional relationship between the marker and the first object.

  Further, the game calculation unit 116 is based on the coordinates of the intersection of the virtual line segment and the virtual plane, and the coordinates of the first object (for example, the coordinates of the representative point of the first object, the coordinates of the center point). , It may be determined whether the positional relationship between the marker and the first object satisfies a predetermined condition, and a game calculation may be performed based on the determination result. For example, it may be determined whether or not the coordinates of the first object are located within a predetermined range corresponding to the coordinates of the marker (for example, within the display range of the marker). Whether the marker is located within a predetermined range corresponding to the coordinates of the object may be determined, or whether the marker and the first object intersect is determined. Also good. Further, based on the determination result, the second object may perform a game calculation in which an attack action (for example, launching a missile, a machine gun, etc.) is performed on the first object. A game calculation for making a predetermined item (for example, a special weapon) usable for the object may be performed.

  The virtual camera control unit 118 performs a virtual camera (viewpoint) control process for generating an image that can be seen from a given (arbitrary) viewpoint in the object space. Specifically, based on operation data or a program (movement / motion algorithm) input by the player through the operation unit 160, the position (X, Y, Z) or rotation angle (for example, X of the virtual camera in the world coordinate system). , Y, and Z axes, the rotation angle when rotating clockwise as viewed from the positive direction is performed. In short, processing for controlling the viewpoint position, the line-of-sight direction, and the angle of view is performed.

  In particular, the virtual camera control unit 118 of the present embodiment performs processing for controlling at least one of the position, orientation, and angle of view of the virtual camera based on the movement path of the first object. For example, control for causing the virtual camera to follow the first object may be performed based on the movement path of the first object.

  The drawing unit 120 (image generation unit) performs drawing processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 100, thereby generating an image and outputting the image to the display unit 190.

  When generating a so-called three-dimensional image, first, object data (model data) including vertex data (vertex position coordinates, texture coordinates, color data, normal vector, α value, etc.) of each vertex of the object is input. Based on the vertex data included in the input object data, vertex processing (shading by a vertex shader) is performed. When performing the vertex processing, vertex generation processing (tessellation, curved surface division, polygon division) for re-dividing the polygon may be performed as necessary.

  In the vertex processing, according to the vertex processing program (vertex shader program, first shader program), vertex movement processing, coordinate transformation, for example, world coordinate transformation, visual field transformation (camera coordinate transformation), clipping processing, projective transformation (perspective transformation) , Projection conversion), viewport conversion (screen coordinate conversion), light source calculation, and other geometric processing are performed, and based on the processing results, the vertex data given to the vertex group constituting the object is changed (updated, adjusted). To do. Object data after the geometry processing (position coordinates of object vertices, texture coordinates, color data (luminance data), normal vector, α value, etc.) is stored in the object data storage unit 176.

  Then, rasterization (scan conversion) is performed based on the vertex data after the vertex processing, and the surface of the polygon (primitive) is associated with the pixel. Subsequent to rasterization, pixel processing (shading or fragment processing by a pixel shader) for drawing pixels (fragments forming a display screen) constituting an image is performed.

  In pixel processing, according to a pixel processing program (pixel shader program, second shader program), various processes such as texture reading (texture mapping), color data setting / change, translucent composition, anti-aliasing, etc. are performed, and an image is processed. The final drawing color of the constituent pixels is determined, and the drawing color of the perspective-transformed object is output (drawn) to a drawing buffer 174 (a buffer capable of storing image information in units of pixels; VRAM). That is, in pixel processing, per-pixel processing for setting or changing image information (color, normal, luminance, α value, etc.) in units of pixels is performed. Thereby, an image that can be seen from the virtual camera (given viewpoint) in the object space is generated.

  The drawing unit 120 performs texture mapping, hidden surface removal processing, α blending, and the like when drawing the object.

  Texture mapping is a process for mapping a texture (texel value) stored in the texture storage unit 178 of the storage unit 170 to an object. Specifically, the texture (surface properties such as color (RGB) and α value) is read from the texture storage unit 178 of the storage unit 170 using the texture coordinates set (given) at the vertex of the object. Then, a texture that is a two-dimensional image is mapped to an object. In this case, processing for associating pixels with texels, bilinear interpolation or the like is performed as texel interpolation.

  As the hidden surface removal processing, hidden surface removal processing by a Z buffer method (depth comparison method, Z test) using a Z buffer 179 (depth buffer) in which a Z value (depth information) of a drawing pixel is stored may be performed. it can. That is, when drawing pixels corresponding to the primitive of the object are drawn, the Z value stored in the Z buffer 179 is referred to. Then, the Z value of the referenced Z buffer 179 is compared with the Z value at the drawing pixel of the primitive, and the Z value at the drawing pixel is the front side when viewed from the virtual camera (for example, a small Z value). If it is, the drawing process of the drawing pixel is performed and the Z value of the Z buffer 179 is updated to a new Z value.

  α blending (α synthesis) is a translucent synthesis process (usually α blending, addition α blending, subtraction α blending, or the like) based on an α value (A value). For example, in normal α blending, a process for obtaining a color obtained by combining two colors by performing linear interpolation with the α value as the strength of synthesis is performed. The α value is information that can be stored in association with each pixel (texel, dot), and is, for example, plus alpha information other than color information indicating the luminance of each RGB color component. The α value can be used as mask information, translucency (equivalent to transparency and opacity), bump information, and the like.

  The sound generation unit 130 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 100, generates game sounds such as BGM, sound effects, or sounds, and outputs the game sounds to the sound output unit 192.

  Note that the terminal according to the present embodiment may be controlled so that the game can be played in a single player mode in which only one player can play or in a multiplayer mode in which a plurality of players can play. For example, when controlling in the multiplayer mode, data processing may be performed by transmitting / receiving data to / from other game devices via a network, or one game device may be operated by a plurality of operation units. Processing may be performed based on the information.

2. Next, the method of this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

2-1. Game Overview This embodiment relates to an image generation process for a shooting game. For example, in this embodiment, the player's operation target own machine (first object, player character) and enemy machine (second object, NPC) that is a computer object, or enemy machine that is an object of another player Are related to flight shooting games that attack each other with guided missiles and machine guns.

  In the present embodiment, a game process is performed in which the own aircraft and the enemy aircraft set their opponents as target objects (targets) and fire a guided missile or a cannon while moving through the object space to shoot down the target object. Therefore, a player who operates the aircraft performs an attack operation so that a missile or a machine gun launched from the aircraft hits the enemy aircraft, and avoids an attack such as a guided missile launched from the enemy aircraft. Perform the operation to move the machine.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the positional relationship between the own aircraft and the enemy aircraft in the object space satisfies a predetermined condition, the proximity battle mode is performed in which the own aircraft and the enemy aircraft perform a battle while moving close to each other. There are two types of melee combat modes: the "tracking side melee battle mode" where the enemy aircraft is the target and the enemy aircraft tracks the enemy aircraft, and the "flank side combat battle mode" where the enemy aircraft is the target and the enemy aircraft tracks the own aircraft. . In the chasing side close combat mode, follow-up control is performed to make the own aircraft follow the enemy aircraft based on the past movement trajectory of the enemy aircraft. In the escape side close combat mode, the enemy aircraft automatically moves based on the past movement trajectory of the own aircraft. Follow-up control is performed to follow the machine.

2-2. Outline of Markers FIGS. 2A to 2C are diagrams showing an example of a game screen generated in an escape side proximity battle mode in which an enemy aircraft NPC tracks its own PC.

  As shown in FIG. 2A, in the escape side close combat mode, a marker MK for the own machine PC is displayed. In the present embodiment, the shape of the marker MK is circular (annular), but the shape of the marker MK is arbitrary, and may be an elliptical shape, a polygonal shape such as a triangle or a rectangle, or other shapes. .

  As shown in FIG. 2B, when the position of own machine PC (for example, the position of the center point or representative point of own machine PC) falls within the display range of marker MK, gauge GA is placed on the inner periphery side of marker MK. Is displayed. The gauge GA is displayed so that the value thereof increases as time elapses when the own machine PC is located in the marker MK, and is reset when the own machine PC is no longer located in the marker MK (the value of the gauge GA). Becomes 0). Note that when the own machine PC is no longer positioned within the marker MK, the value of the gauge GA may be decreased by a predetermined value. Further, the value of the gauge GA may be decreased with the passage of time when the own machine PC is not located in the marker MK.

  As shown in FIG. 2C, when the time when the host PC is located in the marker MK reaches a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) and the value of the gauge GA reaches the maximum value, the host PC becomes the enemy. It becomes a lock-on state in which the machine NPC is locked on. In this lock-on state, an enemy missile NPC launches a guided missile (special weapon) with higher guidance performance than a normal guided missile, and the launched missile will land on its own PC with a high probability. .

  When a guided missile is launched in the lock-on state and when the aircraft PC is no longer positioned within the marker MK, the value of the gauge GA is reset (or decreased) and the lock-on state is released. Is done. Also, without displaying the gauge GA on the marker MK, when the aircraft PC enters the display range of the marker MK, a missile or a cannon is launched from the enemy aircraft NPC toward the aircraft PC. Also good.

  The player can visually grasp the situation where the player's PC is being targeted by the guided missile of the enemy aircraft NPC by the marker MK with respect to the player's own PC, and can lock by the gauge GA displayed on the marker MK. It is possible to visually grasp the timing of turning on.

  Further, the player performs an operation of moving the personal computer PC so that the personal computer PC does not enter the marker MK, or when the personal computer PC is in the marker MK, the gauge GA of the marker MK is set. By performing an operation to move the aircraft PC out of the marker MK until the maximum value is reached (before entering the lock-on state), it is possible to avoid a situation where a guided missile with high guidance performance is launched from the enemy aircraft NPC. it can.

2-3. Marker Size Control The size of the marker MK of this embodiment changes based on the distance between the own machine PC and the enemy machine NPC in the object space.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 3A, the closer the distance between the own aircraft PC and the enemy aircraft NPC, the larger the size (radius) of the marker MK, and the easier the aircraft PC is targeted from the enemy aircraft NPC (marker MK). Is difficult to avoid). On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 3B, as the distance between the aircraft PC and the enemy aircraft NPC increases, the size (radius) of the marker MK decreases, and the aircraft PC becomes difficult to be targeted from the enemy aircraft NPC (marker MK). Is easier to avoid).

  The player, for example, increases the distance between the player PC and the enemy aircraft NPC by performing an operation such as accelerating the player PC, thereby reducing the size of the marker MK and guiding missiles with high guidance performance from the enemy aircraft NPC. Can be avoided.

  Note that the shape, color, and transparency of the marker MK may be changed based on the distance between the own machine PC and the enemy machine NPC in the object space. For example, the closer the distance between the aircraft PC and the enemy aircraft NPC is, the more difficult it is to avoid the marker MK. The longer the distance between the aircraft PC and the enemy aircraft NPC is, the larger the distance between the aircraft PC and the enemy aircraft NPC is. A shape that can be easily avoided may be used.

  In the example shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the shape of the marker MK is changed such that one side of the rectangular marker MK becomes shorter as the distance between the enemy aircraft NPC of the own PC increases. Further, as the distance between the enemy aircraft NPC of the own machine PC is closer, the color of a part or all of the marker MK may be changed to a color (for example, from blue to red) that causes the player to sense danger. Further, the transparency of the marker MK is increased as the distance between the own machine PC and the enemy machine NPC is increased, and the transparency of the marker MK is decreased (opaque) as the distance between the own machine PC and the enemy machine NPC is closer. Good.

  Further, the size of the marker MK for the own machine PC may be changed based on the machine parameter set for the own machine PC. For example, the default size (for example, radius) of the marker MK or the variation rate of the marker MK (the size of the marker MK relative to the amount of change in the distance between the own machine PC and the enemy aircraft NPC) according to the characteristics of the aircraft of the own machine PC. The ratio of the change amount) is set in the own PC as a machine parameter, the set default size is set as the default size of the marker MK for the own PC, and the size of the marker MK is changed according to the set variation rate. It may be. For example, if the aircraft PC is a type of aircraft with high stealth performance, the default size and variation rate of the marker MK are set to a small value so that the distance between the aircraft PC and the enemy aircraft NPC is close. The size of the marker MK with respect to the own machine PC may not be so large so that the own machine PC can easily avoid the marker MK.

  Further, the time until the value of the gauge GA of the marker MK reaches the maximum value (charge time) may be set in the own PC as a machine parameter. For example, if your PC is a type of aircraft with high stealth performance, set a long charge time, and even if your PC is located in the marker MK, it takes time to enter the lock-on state. In this way, the own PC may be made to easily avoid the marker MK.

  When the player performs a predetermined operation or uses a predetermined game item, the size of the marker MK, the rate of change, and the charge time of the gauge GA may be changed. For example, when the player performs an operation of spraying a chaff for avoiding a hit of a guided missile or an operation of releasing a flare, the default size or variation rate of the marker MK for the own PC is reduced for a predetermined time. However (or by increasing the charging time of the gauge GA), the own PC may make it easier to avoid the marker MK.

  Further, the size of the marker MK, the rate of change, and the rate of change of the gauge GA may be controlled based on the difficulty level of the game set by the player and the experience value of the player. For example, when the set difficulty level is high, the default size and variation rate of the marker MK are increased (or the charge time of the gauge GA is shortened) so that the own PC does not easily avoid the marker MK and is set. When the difficulty level is low, the size and variation rate of the marker MK may be reduced (or the charge time of the gauge GA may be increased) so that the own PC can easily avoid the marker MK. Further, when the experience value of the player is high, the default size and variation rate of the marker MK may be increased (or the charging time of the gauge GA is shortened).

2-4. Calculation of Predicted Position of Own Aircraft In the present embodiment, the marker MK for the own aircraft PC in the escape side close combat mode is displayed in the direction of the virtual line segment starting from the enemy aircraft NPC. The direction of the imaginary line segment is determined based on the predicted position of the own aircraft PC after a given time has elapsed, regardless of the orientation of the enemy aircraft NPC (the nose direction of the enemy aircraft NPC).

  The calculation of the predicted position is performed at given time intervals. The prediction position is determined based on the position of the own PC at time t and the predicted position calculated for time t, and the predicted position is calculated based on the determination result. Change the time interval.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, a vector V <b> 1 starting from the position P <b> 1 of the own machine PC at the previous prediction and having the current position P <b> 2 of the own machine PC (position of the own machine PC at time t) as the end point. And a vector V2 having the predicted position P3 (predicted position calculated for time t) predicted last time as the start point and the end point of the predicted position P3 of the own PC at the time of the previous prediction, and the angle θ formed by the vector V1 and the vector V2 Whether the prediction is correct or not is determined based on the above.

That is, when the angle θ is equal to or smaller than the predetermined first angle θ _1, it is determined that the prediction has been made, and the prediction time interval is shortened by a predetermined time. When the angle θ is equal to or larger than the predetermined second angle θ ₂ (θ ₁ <θ ₂ ), it is determined that the prediction has been missed, and the prediction time interval is set to a default value (maximum value) ( Reset). Further, when the angle θ is larger than the first angle θ _{1 and} smaller than the second angle θ ₂ , the prediction time interval is not changed. When the angle θ is equal to or larger than the second angle θ ₂ , the prediction time interval is lengthened by a predetermined time, and when the angle θ is equal to or smaller than the first angle θ ₁ , the prediction time interval is increased. You may make it reset to a default value (minimum value).

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the actual movement trajectory ML of the own machine PC and the predicted position of the own machine PC. 6A shows a case where the prediction time interval is short, and FIG. 6B shows a case where the prediction time interval is long.

  As shown in FIG. 6A, when the prediction time interval is shortened, the error between the predicted position FP and the actual position (movement trajectory ML) becomes smaller and the prediction becomes easier to hit. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 6B, when the prediction time interval becomes longer, the error between the predicted position FP and the actual position (movement trajectory ML) increases, and the prediction is likely to be missed. Therefore, when it is determined that the position prediction is correct, the prediction time interval is shortened, so that the subsequent position prediction is easy to hit. When it is determined that the prediction is not correct, the prediction time interval is long. Therefore, the subsequent position prediction is easily missed.

  Further, a default value of the time interval for position prediction may be set in the own PC as a machine parameter. For example, if the own PC is a type of aircraft with high stealth performance, the default value of the prediction time interval is set to a large value, and the position prediction is likely to deviate (the predicted position and the actual PC's actuality). The error with the position of (2) may be increased).

  Further, when the player performs a predetermined operation or uses a predetermined game item, the time interval for position prediction may be changed. For example, when a player performs an operation of spraying a chaff to avoid a hit of a guided missile or an operation of releasing a flare, the prediction time interval is easily increased by a predetermined time and the position prediction is likely to be lost. It may be made to become.

  Further, the position prediction time interval may be changed based on the set difficulty level of the game and the experience value of the player. For example, when the set difficulty level is high, the default value of the prediction time interval is made small (short) so that the position prediction is easy to hit, and when the set difficulty level is low, the prediction time is The default value of the interval may be increased (lengthened) so that the position prediction is easily lost. When the experience value of the player is high, the default value of the prediction time interval may be reduced.

  In the present embodiment, the predicted position of the own machine PC is predicted on the assumption that the own machine PC performs the same movement as the previous movement (movement from the previous position prediction time to the present time), and the movement history of the own machine PC (past The movement information) is calculated.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7A, based on the position P1 in the world coordinates of the own machine PC at the time of the previous prediction and the position P2 in the world coordinates of the current machine PC, the local coordinates of the own machine PC are used. The movement vector V3 at is calculated (see FIG. 7B). In the example shown in FIG. 7, the own machine PC has moved by 30 in the left direction (−X axis direction) and 100 in the forward direction (+ Z axis direction) in local coordinates with reference to the posture (orientation) at the time of the previous prediction. The movement vector V3 is calculated as follows.

  Then, the movement vector V4 is calculated by applying the calculated movement vector V3 to the current position P2 and posture of the own PC, and the predicted position in the world coordinates of the own PC at the next prediction (after a given time). P4 is calculated. In the example shown in FIG. 7, it is predicted that own PC moves by 30 in the left direction (−X axis direction) and 100 in the forward direction (+ Z axis direction) in the local coordinates with reference to the current posture (orientation). Thus, the predicted position P4 is calculated.

  In this way, when the machine PC continues to move at the same speed (speed and direction) (for example, when it continues to go straight at the same speed, it continues to turn, ascend or descend in the same direction) ), The error between the predicted position predicted for the time t and the actual position of the own PC at the time t becomes small, and the own PC moves at a different speed (for example, the turning direction is changed). Case), the error between the predicted position and the actual position of the own PC increases.

2-5. Next, the direction of the virtual line segment starting from the enemy aircraft NPC is determined based on the predicted position of the own machine PC. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, the direction DS of the imaginary line segment is calculated by performing linear interpolation according to the passage of time with the predicted position P3 predicted last time as the start point and the predicted position P4 predicted this time as the end point. To do.

  That is, at the time of the current prediction (time T1), the direction DS of the virtual line segment is the direction toward the previous predicted position P3 (the predicted position predicted for time T1 at a time T0 past a given time from time T1). Then, at the next prediction time after the lapse of the given time (time T2 after the lapse of the given time from the time T1), the direction DS of the virtual line segment is the current predicted position P4 (at the time T1, at the time T2). (Predicted predicted position), and the direction between the current time and the next time (between time T1 and time T2) is the direction toward the point on the line connecting the position P3 and the position P4. For example, when the prediction time interval (time from time T1 to time T2) is 1 second, the virtual line segment 0.5 seconds after the most recent prediction time (time T1) is the position P3 and the position P4. (The position obtained by interpolating the position P3 and the position P4 at a ratio of 1: 1). In this way, the direction DS of the virtual line segment can be changed smoothly with time.

2-6. Determination of Marker Display Position Next, the display position of the marker MK is determined from the direction DS of the virtual line segment. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, a virtual plane VP that has the coordinate P _3D of its own PC and is orthogonal to the line-of-sight vector EV of the virtual camera VC (the line-of-sight vector EV is a normal line) is calculated. . Then, a virtual line segment VS is calculated with the start point as the coordinates of the enemy aircraft NPC and the end point as coordinates at a predetermined distance in the direction DS of the virtual line segment.

  Then, the coordinates of the intersection IS between the virtual line segment VS and the virtual plane VP (three-dimensional coordinates in the world coordinate system) are calculated, and the three-dimensional coordinates of the intersection IS are converted into two-dimensional coordinates. Specifically, the three-dimensional coordinates of the intersection point IS are converted into two-dimensional coordinates in a screen coordinate system (two-dimensional coordinate system) having the virtual plane VP as a projection plane. The two-dimensional coordinate of this intersection point IS becomes the center coordinate of the marker MK. Here, the marker MK is not displayed when the virtual line segment VS and the virtual plane VP do not intersect with each other because the distance between the own PC and the enemy aircraft is greatly separated.

  FIG. 10 shows a screen coordinate system including the two-dimensional coordinates of the intersection IS of the virtual line segment VS and the virtual plane VP. In this embodiment, the radius r of the marker (r is the length in the screen coordinate system) is calculated based on the distance between the own aircraft PC and the enemy aircraft NPC, and the circle with the radius r having the two-dimensional coordinate of the intersection IS as the central coordinate. An image of the marker MK is drawn. Here, the diameter may be calculated instead of the marker radius r. That is, information for specifying the size of the marker MK may be calculated based on the distance between the own aircraft PC and the enemy aircraft NPC.

  Next, an image of the marker MK is displayed on an image of the object space viewed from a virtual camera (an image generated by drawing an object after geometry processing (object such as own machine PC, enemy machine NPC) in the frame buffer). By combining (for example, α combination), a game image as shown in FIG. 2 is generated.

2-7. Determination of the positional relationship between the own device and the marker Further, it is determined whether or not the position of the own device PC is within the marker MK (determination whether the positional relationship between the own device PC and the marker MK satisfies a predetermined condition). Is also performed in the screen coordinate system. That is, the three-dimensional coordinate P _3D of the own machine PC is converted into a two-dimensional coordinate P _2D (see FIG. 10) in the screen coordinate system having the virtual plane VP as the projection plane in the same manner as the coordinates of the intersection IS. a two-dimensional coordinate _{P 2D} of _PC, 2-dimensional coordinates of the intersection point iS (center coordinates of the marker MK), based on the radius r, whether 2-dimensional coordinates _{P 2D} of its own PC is within the display range of the marker MK Determine.

  Then, based on the determination result, the process of displaying the gauge GA on the marker MK, the process of increasing or decreasing the value of the gauge GA, the process of resetting the value of the gauge GA, whether the lock-on state has been reached based on the value of the gauge GA A game calculation such as a process for determining whether or not, a process for launching a guided missile from the enemy aircraft NPC when the lock-on state occurs is performed.

  In this way, by determining the positional relationship between the own machine PC and the marker MK in the two-dimensional coordinate system, the processing load can be suppressed as compared with the case of determining the positional relationship in the three-dimensional coordinate system.

  In addition, by performing the drawing of the marker MK and the determination of the positional relationship between the own machine PC and the marker MK in the same two-dimensional coordinate system, the determination result of the visual positional relationship and the positional relation between the own machine PC and the marker MK. (If your PC is located within the marker MK on the game screen, it is always determined that the position of your PC is within the marker MK). It is possible to generate a game image without any.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the predicted position of the own machine PC is calculated on the assumption that the own machine PC performs the same movement as the previous position prediction to the present time, and the virtual line segment VS is calculated based on the calculated predicted position. The direction is calculated, and the marker MK is displayed in the direction of the calculated virtual line segment VS.

  Accordingly, an operation in which the player moves his / her PC at the same speed (speed, direction) (for example, an operation in which the player's PC continues to go straight at the same speed, and the player's PC turns, rises in the same direction, Or an operation that keeps moving down), the error between the predicted position and the position of the own machine PC becomes small (and the prediction becomes even easier because the time interval of position prediction becomes shorter), so the marker MK Approaches the own PC, and the own PC is captured in the marker MK.

  On the other hand, an operation in which the player changes the speed (speed, direction) of the player PC (for example, an operation of turning, raising, lowering, or accelerating the player PC when the player PC is moving straight, When the operation of changing the turning direction of the PC is continuously performed, the error between the predicted position and the position of the own machine PC becomes large (and the prediction is more easily deviated because the time interval of position prediction becomes longer). Therefore, the marker MK moves away from its own PC, and the own PC can avoid capturing by the marker MK.

  That is, according to the present embodiment, the behavior of the marker MK with respect to the player PC can be changed according to the behavior of the player PC that changes based on the operation of the player, and the player turns the player PC suddenly. By performing such operations as described above, it is possible to enjoy a game play in which the own PC is avoided from being captured in the marker MK.

  In the present embodiment, when the own aircraft PC tracks the enemy aircraft NPC, the marker for the enemy aircraft NPC is displayed, but the position prediction of the enemy aircraft NPC is not performed, as shown in FIG. Thus, the direction of the virtual line segment VS is the direction of the own machine PC (the nose direction), and the marker MK is displayed in the direction of the virtual line segment VS. That is, the coordinate (two-dimensional coordinate) of the intersection IS of the virtual line segment VS extending in the direction of the own machine PC and the virtual plane VP becomes the center coordinate of the marker MK.

  Here, even when the enemy aircraft NPC tracks the own PC, the non-player character is not predicted for the position of the own PC, similarly to the “following side close combat mode”. If an attempt is made to display the marker MK in the direction of the enemy aircraft NPC (the nose direction), there is a possibility that the marker MK will be displayed in the game screen (the possibility that the own machine PC is located in the marker MK) It was found that it is not possible to provide a game play that avoids being caught in the marker MK.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, in the “flank side combat mode”, the marker MK is displayed in the direction of the virtual line segment VS obtained based on the predicted position of the own aircraft PC, regardless of the orientation of the enemy aircraft NPC. You are in control. Accordingly, it is possible to provide a game play in which the player PC is prevented from being caught in the marker MK in a situation where the player PC is being tracked by an enemy aircraft NPC that is a non-player character.

2-8. In the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not the positional relationship between the own machine PC and the enemy aircraft NPC satisfies a predetermined mode activation condition, and when it is determined that the predetermined mode activation condition is satisfied, Close combat mode is activated.

As shown in FIG. 12, a conical first determination area JA1 _P and a spherical second determination area JA2 _P are set in the own PC. Similarly, for the enemy aircraft NPC, a conical first determination area JA1 _N and a spherical second determination area JA2 _N are set. The first determination areas JA1 _P and JA1 _N are set so as to extend in front of the aircraft (the own PC and the enemy aircraft NPC), and the second determination areas JA2 _P and JA2 _N have the center of the spherical area. It is set to be located behind the aircraft. Each determination area set for the own machine PC and the enemy machine NPC may have different setting positions and shapes with respect to the aircraft depending on characteristics (attributes) of the aircraft.

In this embodiment, the position enemy NPC in the second determination area JA2 in _P of its own PC, and if the first determination area JA1 _N ship PC within the enemy NPC is located (in FIG. 12 In the case shown), it is determined that the enemy aircraft NPC is approaching behind the aircraft PC, and the “escape side proximity battle mode” is activated. On the other hand, when the own aircraft PC is located in the second determination area JA2 _N of the enemy aircraft NPC and the enemy aircraft NPC is located in the first determination area JA1 _P of the own aircraft PC, It is determined that the enemy aircraft NPC is approaching forward, and the “following side proximity battle mode” is activated.

  Here, the positional relationship is determined using the determination region set for the own aircraft PC and the determination region set for the enemy aircraft NPC, but is set to one of the own aircraft PC and the enemy aircraft NPC. The positional relationship may be determined using only the determined region.

  Further, it may be determined that the mode activation condition is satisfied when the distance between the own machine PC and the enemy machine NPC becomes a predetermined value or less. Further, when the own machine PC and the enemy machine NPC enter a predetermined area (special area) set in the object space, it may be determined that the mode activation condition is satisfied. Further, it may be determined that the mode activation condition is satisfied when a predetermined operation input is performed by the player or when a predetermined game item is used.

3. Processing Next, an example of processing of the game device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. Here, the display control of the marker MK with respect to the own machine PC in the “flank side combat mode” will be described.

  First, the marker display control unit 114 updates the position prediction timer of the own PC (step S10 in FIG. 13). Next, based on the timer value, it is determined whether or not the position prediction timing has come (whether or not the timer value t has reached the position prediction time interval T) (step S12).

In the process of step S12, if it is determined that the position prediction timing has come,
The marker display control unit 114 uses the position of the own PC at the time of the previous prediction as the start point, the vector V1 having the current position of the own PC as the end point, and the position P1 of the own PC at the previous prediction as the start point. The angle θ formed with the vector V2 having the predicted position as the end point is calculated (step S14). When the timer value t reaches T, the timer value t is reset (t = 0). If it is determined in step S12 that the position prediction timing is not reached, the process proceeds to step S24.

Then, the marker display control unit 114, an angle calculated in the processing in step S14 theta is determined whether a first angle theta ₁ following a predetermined (step S16), and at a first angle theta ₁ below If it is determined that there is, the position prediction time interval T is shortened by a predetermined time ΔT (step S18). Here, when the time interval T becomes equal to or smaller than the predetermined minimum value T _MIN as a result of shortening the time interval T, the minimum value T _MIN is set to the time interval T.

When the processing of step S16 is determined that the first angle theta not ₁ or less, the angle theta is determined whether a second angle _{θ 2 (θ 1 <θ 2} ) or more predetermined (step S19 ), when it is determined that the second angle theta ₂ or resets the time interval T by setting a predetermined maximum value T _MAX (the default value) in the time interval T of the position prediction (step S20) . If it is determined that not the second angle theta ₂ or more, the processing proceeds to step S22 without changing the time interval T.

  Next, the marker display control unit 114 calculates the movement vector V3 in the local coordinates of the own machine PC based on the position and orientation of the own machine PC at the time of the previous prediction and the current position of the own machine PC, and calculates the calculated movement vector. Based on V3 and the current position and orientation of own PC, the predicted position of own PC is calculated (step S22).

  Next, the marker display control unit 114 linearly interpolates the predicted position calculated this time and the previously calculated predicted position according to the timer value t, so that a virtual line segment starting from the position of the enemy aircraft NPC is used. Direction DS is calculated (step S24).

  Next, the marker display control unit 114 calculates a virtual plane VP in which the coordinates of the own aircraft PC exist and the line-of-sight vector EV of the virtual camera VC is a normal line (step S26), and the position of the enemy aircraft NPC is the starting point. A virtual line segment VS extending a predetermined distance in the direction DS of the virtual line segment is calculated (step S28).

  Next, the marker display control unit 114 calculates the three-dimensional coordinates of the intersection IS between the virtual plane VP and the virtual line segment VS (step S30), and calculates the three-dimensional coordinates of the intersection IS and the three-dimensional coordinates of the own machine PC. Each is converted into two-dimensional coordinates in a screen coordinate system (two-dimensional coordinate system) with the virtual plane VP as a projection plane (step S32).

  Next, the marker display control unit 114 calculates the radius r of the marker MK in the two-dimensional coordinate system based on the distance between the own machine PC and the enemy machine NPC in the object space (step S34 in FIG. 14). Here, the radius r may be calculated based on the machine parameters set in the own PC, the operation by the player, the difficulty level of the game, and the experience value of the player.

  Next, the game calculation unit 116 determines that the two-dimensional coordinate system is based on the intersection IS calculated in the process of step S32 and the two-dimensional coordinates of the own machine PC and the radius r calculated in the process of step S34. It is determined whether or not the two-dimensional coordinates of the machine PC are within the marker MK having a radius r centered on the two-dimensional coordinates of the intersection IS (step S36).

  If it is determined in step S36 that the coordinates of the player PC are within the marker MK, the game calculation unit 116 performs a process of increasing the value of the gauge GA by a predetermined value (step S38). ), It is determined whether the value of the gauge GA has reached a predetermined value (maximum value) (step S42). If it is determined that the value has reached the predetermined value, a special guided missile is sent from the enemy aircraft NPC. Step S44 for performing a game calculation for firing (activating a special weapon). When the gauge GA value reaches the maximum value, the gauge GA value is reset. If it is determined in step S36 that the coordinates of the own PC are not within the marker MK, the value of the gauge GA is reset (or the value of the gauge GA is decreased by a predetermined value) (step S40). The process proceeds to step S46.

  Next, the marker display control unit 114 performs a process for drawing the marker MK having the radius r with the two-dimensional coordinate of the intersection point IS as the center coordinate (step S46). Further, when the gauge value is not reset, processing for displaying the gauge GA on the marker MK is performed.

  Next, it is determined whether or not to continue the process (step S48). When the process is continued, the process proceeds to step S10, and the processes after step S10 are repeated.

4). Modifications The present invention is not limited to that described in the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made. For example, terms cited as broad or synonymous terms in the description in the specification or drawings can be replaced with broad or synonymous terms in other descriptions in the specification or drawings.

  For example, in the above embodiment, a case has been described in which the three-dimensional coordinates of the intersection of the virtual line segment and the virtual plane are converted into two-dimensional coordinates, and the marker display position is determined based on the two-dimensional coordinates at this intersection. A marker object indicating a marker may be placed in the object space based on the three-dimensional coordinates of the intersection of the line segment and the virtual plane.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 15A, an object composed of a plurality of ring-shaped polygons may be arranged as a marker object MO in the object space. Further, as shown in FIG. 15B, an object obtained by mapping a texture TEX representing a ring-shaped marker to an object composed of plate-shaped polygons may be arranged in the object space as a marker object MO. In this case, the marker size may be controlled based on the distance or the like by subjecting the marker object MO to enlargement / reduction processing based on the distance or the like between the own machine PC and the enemy aircraft NPC.

  Here, the marker object MO is set so that the three-dimensional coordinate of the intersection of the virtual line segment and the virtual plane becomes the center coordinate of the marker object MO, and the virtual plane and the marker object MO are parallel (the marker object MO is virtual). You may arrange | position so that it may face the front with respect to a camera. Even in this case, the determination of the positional relationship between the own machine PC and the marker is performed based on the two-dimensional coordinates of the intersection IS in the two-dimensional coordinate system and the two-dimensional coordinates of the own machine PC, as in the above embodiment. Also good.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 16, the marker object MO may be arranged so as to be vertically offset from the virtual plane VP toward the virtual camera VC by a given distance d. In this way, by placing the marker object MO between the target aircraft PC and the enemy aircraft NPC, it is strange to see how the aircraft PC is being targeted by the enemy missile NPC that is approaching from behind. It can be expressed without.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 15C, a gauge object GO indicating the gauge GA may be arranged in the object space together with the marker object MO. When the marker object MO and the gauge object GO are arranged in the object space, the gauge object GO may be arranged on the near side as viewed from the virtual camera VC with respect to the marker object MO. In this way, it is possible to make the gauge object GO easy to see, particularly when a game image is generated using a stereoscopic technique (a technique for generating a left-eye game image and a right-eye image).

  When the marker object MO is arranged between the own machine PC and the enemy machine NPC, depending on the position of the virtual camera VC, all or part of the marker object MO is hidden by the enemy machine NPC. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 17, when the marker object MO overlaps with the enemy aircraft NPC, the portion PT overlapping with the marker object MO of the enemy aircraft NPC is rendered translucent and is located behind the enemy aircraft NPC. The marker object may be seen through. Further, the portion PT where the marker object MO overlaps may be drawn in a color different from the other portions. Further, the marker object MO may be drawn so as not to be hidden by the enemy aircraft NPC. In this way, even if the marker object MO overlaps the enemy aircraft NPC, the player can surely see the marker MO with respect to the player's own PC.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the player character is the first object is the player object and the enemy aircraft is the second object is the NPC. However, the enemy aircraft is the NPC or another player character. One object may be used, and the player's own character may be the second object. That is, a predicted position of the enemy aircraft may be calculated, a virtual line segment direction may be calculated based on the predicted position, and a marker for the enemy aircraft may be displayed in the virtual line segment direction. In this way, even a player such as a beginner can easily capture the enemy aircraft in the marker.

100 processing unit, 110 object space setting unit, 112 movement / motion processing unit (movement control unit), 114 marker display control unit, 116 game calculation unit, 118 virtual camera control unit, 120 drawing unit (image generation unit), 160 operation Unit, 170 storage unit, 180 information storage medium, 190 display unit, 192 sound output unit, 196 communication unit

Claims (12)

A program for generating an image,
A movement control unit for performing movement control for moving the first and second objects in the object space;
Based on the movement history of the first object, a predicted position of the first object after a given time has elapsed, and based on the predicted position and the position of the second object, the predicted position of the first object A marker display control unit for performing control to display a marker;
A game calculation unit for performing a game calculation based on the positional relationship between the marker and the first object;
A program that causes a computer to function as an image generation unit that generates an image of an object space viewed from a given viewpoint. In claim 1,
The program according to claim 1, wherein the first object is a player character, and the second object is a non-player character. In claim 1 or 2,
The marker display control unit
A program that changes at least one of a size, a shape, and a color of the marker based on a distance between the first object and the second object. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3,
The marker display control unit
Obtaining the predicted position for each given time interval, and changing the time interval for obtaining the predicted position based on the position of the first object at time t and the predicted position determined for time t. A featured program. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 4,
The marker display control unit
A virtual line segment passing through the coordinates of the second object, the direction of which is determined based on the predicted position, and the virtual line determined based on the direction of the viewpoint and the position of the first object A program for determining a display position of the marker based on coordinates of an intersection with a plane. In claim 5,
The marker display control unit
A program characterized by converting a three-dimensional coordinate of an intersection of the virtual line segment and the virtual plane into a two-dimensional coordinate, and determining a display position of the marker based on the obtained two-dimensional coordinate of the intersection. In claim 5,
The marker display control unit
A program that arranges an object indicating the marker in an object space based on a three-dimensional coordinate of an intersection of the virtual line segment and the virtual plane. In claim 7,
The marker display control unit
The program which arrange | positions the object which shows the said marker between the said 1st object and the said 2nd object. In any of claims 5 to 8,
The game calculation unit is
Based on the coordinates of the intersection of the virtual line segment and the virtual plane, and the coordinates of the first object, determine whether the positional relationship between the marker and the first object satisfies a predetermined condition, A program characterized by performing a game operation based on a determination result. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 9,
The marker display control unit
A program for controlling display of the marker when a positional relationship between the first object and the second object satisfies a predetermined condition.   A computer-readable information storage medium, wherein the program according to any one of claims 1 to 10 is stored. A movement control unit for performing movement control for moving the first and second objects in the object space;
Based on the movement history of the first object, a predicted position of the first object after a given time has elapsed, and based on the predicted position and the position of the second object, the predicted position of the first object A marker display control unit for performing control to display a marker;
A game calculation unit for performing a game calculation based on the positional relationship between the marker and the first object;
An image generation system comprising: an image generation unit configured to generate an image of the object space viewed from a given viewpoint.